The community of Rainier and greater Columbia County, Oregon, is mourning the tragic loss of Gary Michael George, 69, of Rainier, who was killed in a devastating two-vehicle crash on Friday, May 15, 2026, along Highway 30 near milepost 34 in Columbia County.
According to the Oregon State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 1:47 p.m. when George was traveling eastbound in a gold Nissan Pathfinder near the Columbia City area. Investigators reported that, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with a loaded white Freightliner commercial motor vehicle.
Authorities noted that the Nissan had been observed passing other traffic in the oncoming lane shortly before the crash, which remains part of the ongoing investigation.
The driver of the Freightliner, identified as 36-year-old Kulwinder Singh of Auburn, Washington, was not injured in the collision. Officials confirmed he remained at the scene and fully cooperated with investigators.
Despite emergency response efforts, Gary Michael George was pronounced deceased at the scene due to the severity of the crash.
The collision caused significant disruption along Highway 30, which was closed for approximately three hours while emergency crews and investigators documented the scene and cleared the roadway.
As news of his passing spreads, family, friends, and loved ones in Rainier and surrounding communities are left grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss. Gary is being remembered for his life, his presence, and the memories shared with those closest to him. His passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him.
The Oregon State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash as they work to determine all contributing factors.
